The defensive backs took to the field in Indianapolis on Tuesday to close out the Combine and continued to make the case that this year's draft class is as deep as ever and possibly as fast as ever.
Central Florida's Josh Robinson, a junior, took the prize for this year's fastest player when he timed an official 4.33 40 time. Unofficially he was clocked at 4.31 and 4.29 and helped his stock considerably. Some scouts don't see him being that fast on the field, but he has talent and was considered a fourth-round prospect entering the Combine. After his time, that will likely change and with a career highlight of covering former Georgia wide receiver A.J. Green in the 2010 Liberty Bowl on his resume, there's a lot to like about Robinson.
Stephon Gilmore from South Carolina entered the Combine with a strong second-round grade and stood out during the positional drills. His 4.40 40 was the third-fastest among defensive backs and he's considered well-sized at 6-foot-1, 190 pounds and is called a team leader. He was a three year starter at South Carolina and had eight career interceptions.
A small-scout standout, Justin Bethel from Presbyterian, checked in at 6-foot, 200 pounds and shined in the positional drills, showcasing strong balance and fluidity. His 40 time was 4.53 and scouts believe he's flexible enough to play either corner or free safety in the NFL.
One local player that is a fan favorite, Georgia's Brandon Boykin, didn't participate in drills or workouts at the Combine. He was resting a fractured right leg that occurred at the Senior Bowl.
Sean Richardson of Vanderbilt could benefit from what many consider a weak safety draft class. Entering the Combine he was considered a late-round prospect, but he showed exceptional athleticism on Tuesday. He ran a 4.47 40 and his vertical and broad jump numbers were good for second and third among all defensive backs. At 6-foot-2, 216 pounds, his blend of size and speed make him a strong prospect at both safety positions.
